Defence

Google Maps Exposes Secret US Naval Drone ‘Manta Ray’

Internet users were recently taken by surprise when they discovered an unusual sight on Google Maps: a US naval submarine drone called the ‘Manta Ray’ docked at Port Hueneme naval base in California.

US naval submarine drone ‘Manta Ray’ spotted

This sighting stirred a mix of curiosity and concern, leading many to question whether this was a deliberate reveal or a security oversight. Soon after, the image was replaced with that of a normal ship, adding to the mystery.

REPORT: OOPS!
A Top-Secret U.S. @DeptofDefense Underwater Drone Called The “Manta Ray” Has Allegedly Been Spotted On Google Earth Docked At the @portofhueneme Naval Base In California. Hueneme Naval Base Is part of Naval Base Ventura County (@NBVCCalifornia) pic.twitter.com/xbn5zJ9Ore— John Basham (@JohnBasham) June 25, 2024

The Manta Ray submarine drone is a sophisticated piece of technology designed to remain underwater for extended periods. Equipped with advanced sensors, it is capable of detecting underwater threats and hibernating on the sea floor without the need for frequent refueling. This unique drone uses buoyancy to glide seamlessly through the water, both below and above the surface.

One of the standout features of the Manta Ray is its modular design, allowing it to be disassembled and transported in standard shipping containers. This eliminates the necessity for dedicated port facilities, making its deployment more flexible and efficient. The modular design enables the Manta Ray to be reassembled and deployed in various locations as needed.

Built by Northrop Grumman for a US Navy project

Built by Northrop Grumman as part of a US Navy project, the Manta Ray represents a significant advancement in underwater warfare technology. The project aims to develop long-range underwater weapons, with the Manta Ray at the forefront. The drone’s ability to hibernate on the seafloor for extended periods without refueling highlights its potential for long-term, covert operations.

The Manta Ray is designed with several payload bays of varying sizes, allowing it to undertake a wide range of naval missions. Despite its name suggesting a creature of the sea, the Manta Ray drone seemed to vanish from the internet as quickly as it appeared, leaving many to speculate about the true nature and capabilities of this top-secret aquatic weapon.

Adding to the intrigue, reports suggest that the Manta Ray’s adversary boasts a drone with a range of about 6,200 miles, capable of reaching speeds up to 100 knots (approximately 115 mph) and potentially being armed with nuclear weapons. This revelation underscores the high stakes and cutting-edge technology involved in modern naval warfare.

Aerospace

Lockheed Martin’s C-130J Ready-to-Build Aircraft in India Amidst C-390 Competition

In the competition for medium-range military transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, there are currently three main contenders. Airbus offers the A400, Embraer presents the C390, and Lockheed Martin proposes the C130J, which is already in service with the Indian Air Force.

These contenders are actively promoting their aircraft to India, as the Indian Air Force plans to acquire between 40 to 80 aircraft, subject to various operational requirements.

Embraer has partnered with Mahindra to assemble its aircraft in India, aligning with the Make in India initiative. This initiative aims to manufacture products locally and enhance domestic production capabilities.

Lockheed Martin, leveraging its joint venture with Tata (TLMAL), aims to capitalize on the significant opportunity to sell military transport planes to India. TLMAL currently manufactures tail assemblies for C-130s in the US.

As per the sources Airbus is pitching its A400M aircraft to the Indian Air Force. The company has a joint venture with Tata to produce C295 transports in India. Meanwhile, Embraer, which manufactures the C-390, has already sold eight planes to India for executive and early warning aircraft use and has partnered with Mahindra to compete for this order.

Lockheed Martin advocates for India to continue procuring C-130Js, highlighting their availability of spare parts, reliability, and low operating costs. Additionally, the commonality in training, maintenance, spares, and logistics support is emphasized as advantageous features of the aircraft.